gordon west
Ask SAIL: Radar Antenna Location
Q: I have a 40ft Pearson with a 24-mile radar antenna installed on the radar arch aft. I am concerned that I could be missing medium-range targets beyond eight to 10 miles away. Should I have the antenna moved to the mast, 10ft higher than where it is now? — Jack Crawford, ...read more
Ask SAIL: VHF Portables on Land
VHF PORTABLES ON LAND Q: Our dockmaster tells me that portable marine VHF radios are now permitted for use on land. Does this mean I can use my hand-held on the ski slopes, or talk from the office with boats for weather reports? Don Hull, New York, NY GORDON WEST REPLIES Yes, and ...read more
Ask SAIL: Better Radar, Less Power
Q: My new television is ultra-high definition, and I now see at boat shows that marine radars also offer UHD options, with dramatically fewer transmit power outputs. Have you seen this new gear in operation? D. Pritchard, Tampa, FL GORDON WEST REPLIES Indeed, the newer breed of ...read more